Rome is one of the most iconic cities in the world, and for good reason. It is known as the “eternal city” for its rich history and culture. From ancient ruins to modern art galleries, Rome has something for everyone. If you’re looking to explore the city’s history, there are plenty of amazing history museums to visit. From the Capitoline Museums to the National Roman Museum, here’s a guide to the best history museums in Rome.
Musei Capitolini
The Musei Capitolini in Rome has a grand history dating back to 1471 when Pope Sixtus IV donated a collection of bronze statues to the people of Rome. Since then, various Popes have added to the museum’s collection including archaeological material and a picture gallery. Today, the museums are housed in three buildings that enclose the Piazza del Campidoglio, containing sculptures, frescoes, and ancient bronzes. The Capitoline Picture Gallery contains masterpieces from Caravaggio and Guercino, while the Palazzo Caffarelli-Clementino houses the Medagliere Capitolino. The Musei Capitolini is a must-see for any visitor to Rome, with its incredible art and artifacts that tell the story of the city’s rich history.
Palazzo Massimo alle Terme
(Museo Nazionale Romano)
The National Roman Museum is home to the most important archaeological collection in the world. It includes various materials divided by contexts of origin and nature, such as Palazzo Massimo alle Terme, Palazzo Altemps, Crypta Balbi, and the Baths of Diocletian. This prestigious collection holds the former Kircherian Museum, Gnecchi Museum, and Vittorio Emanuele III of Savoy’s medieval and modern collections. The museum houses masterpieces of classical sculpture, such as the Augustus as Pontifex Maximus from Via Labicana, the Fanciulla di Anzio, the Lancellotti Discobulus, the Sleeping Hermaphrodite, the Venus Bathing by Doidalsas, and the Apollo of the Tiber, among many others. On the second floor, visitors can view the paintings, mosaics and inlays from the Republican and Imperial periods, as well as the inlay work from the 4th century AD depicting the head of the Sun God in cipolin marble. The numismatic collection, stored in the basement, is also filled with unique pieces. From bronze works to luxurious decorations, the National Roman Museum has something for everyone.
Palazzo Doria Pamphilj
The Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, a 16th century palace in Rome, houses the Galleria Doria Pamphilj, a museum of works from the family’s private collection. Spanning ten beautiful rooms, such as the throne room and ballroom, the museum is a hidden gem, largely overlooked by mass tourism. Originally constructed for the Pamphilj family, the palace was later gifted to the Doria family by Pope Clement XII. Art lovers for generations, the palace is adorned with masterpieces by Titian, Raphael, Caravaggio, Correggio and Vélazquez.
In addition to the gallery, visitors can also explore the private apartments of Princess Doria, built in the 17th century by Camillo Pamphilj, and still occupied by the family’s descendants. The chapel of this grand palace is also open to the public. With so much to see, the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj is an unforgettable visit for any art lover.
National Etruscan Museum of Villa Giulia
(Museo Nazionale Etrusco di Villa Giulia)
The Villa Giulia is a stunning Renaissance palace located in Rome, Italy. Built by Pope Julius III in 1550-1555, the palace is now home to the National Etruscan Museum of Villa Giulia. The museum is renowned for its impressive art collections, ranging from pottery, jewellery and bronzes to funeral urns, sculptures and more. It also boasts some of the most valuable pieces from antiquity to the 19th century, including a 520 BC sarcophagus and the iconic terracotta figures of Apollo of Veii and Hercules and Apollo vying for the deer from 510 BC. To make the experience even more enjoyable, the palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens. A visit to the Villa Giulia is a must-see for art lovers and those interested in historical monuments.
Le Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini
The Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini provides visitors with a unique window into the life of wealthy Roman families from the imperial era. Discovered by accident in 2005, the complex is home to a well-preserved Roman bath house and two residences, complete with original staircases, mosaics and inlaid marble pavement. What’s more, a multimedia light show and virtual reconstruction of Trajan’s Column bring the ruins to life, allowing visitors to gain a vivid insight into life in ancient Rome.
The Domus Romane site can only be visited via a guided tour, and with the small group sizes and lack of mass tourism, visitors are rewarded with a truly intimate experience. Combining historical information, multimedia displays and a virtual tour, the Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini is a must-see for any curious traveller. Book your tour today and step back in time to the era of Imperial Rome.
National Gallery of Ancient Art in Barberini Palace
The National Galleries of Ancient Art are a single museum institution divided between Palazzo Barberini and Palazzo Corsini. With Palazzo Corsini’s collection growing thanks to the Torlonia, Monte di Pietà, Chigi Collection, and Henriette Hertz donations, new exhibition spaces were found in Palazzo Barberini. Visitors of the Palazzo Barberini can find masterpieces by artists such as Raphael, Andrea del Sarto, Beccafumi, El Greco, Caravaggio, Guido Reni, and Bernini. The 18th century collection houses works by Maratti, Batoni, Canaletto, Subleyras, Mengs, and van Wittel. In addition, the galleries also preserve works on loan to other institutions. A visit to the National Galleries is a must for art connoisseurs.
Exploring Rome on foot is an excellent way to take in the beauty of the city while discovering its fascinating history. After a tiring day of sightseeing, why not take a break to visit one of the many renowned museums Rome has to offer?
